Frequently Asked Questions
About the Religious Recognitions for Girls and Adults in Girl Scouting

What are the religious recognitions programs?
The religious recognitions programs are programs created by the various religious groups to encourage girls to grow stronger in their faith. All religious recognitions programs have been created by the religious groups themselves, not by the Girl Scouts of the U.S.A.. The “Interfaith Quick Reference Chart” lists all the different religious programs currently available and who to contact for more information. The Girl Scouts of the U.S.A. recognizes these programs and allows the recognition insignia to be worn on the official uniform, but each religious organization develops and administers its own program. 

I have a troop with girls of all different faiths. How can I include the religious recognitions programs for my troop?
The religious recognitions programs should be presented to the Girl Scouts and their families as an optional program for them to complete through their religious organization. Religious instruction should always come from the religious organization, not from the troop leader. Parents need to be informed of these programs and told where to get the information for their particular faith.

Why doesn’t my religious institution know about the religious recognitions programs? 
Although the religious recognitions programs have been created by the religious bodies at the national level, the local religious institution may not be aware of these programs. It may be helpful to write for more information or even obtain a copy of the curriculum to give to your religious leader.

If the religious recognitions program for my faith has more than one level (for the different grade levels), may my child earn all of these recognitions?
Yes. Girls and young women can earn all levels of their religious recognitions program. However, they must be in the appropriate age/grade level according to program guidelines when they start and complete each level (they may not go backwards and earn younger programs).

Do the girls and young women have to belong to a religious 
institution?
It depends on the religion. Please check the eligibility requirements for your particular religious program.

Do boys and girls participate in the same program?
It depends on the religion. Some religions have created programs that are used by both boys and girls. Other religions have created separate programs for members of separate youth agencies (i.e. Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scouts of the U.S.A., and Camp Fire Boys and Girls). Please check the specific eligibility requirements for each religious recognition program.

Who may serve as counselor?
It depends on the program. Some require that clergy serve as counselor, others allow parents or other family members to serve as counselor. 

How do we get started on these programs?
First, the girl must obtain the specific booklet for her religion. This booklet will contain information on all the lessons and service projects that she will need to complete. Each Girl Scout needs to have her own booklet to document progress. Some religions also provide adult manuals for counselors and mentors. Check with your council to see if they stock these booklets in their store, or contact the religious organization directly (addresses and phone numbers are listed on the “Interfaith Quick Reference Chart”).
Second, parents must review the specific guidelines for their particular program: some programs require that the girl be an official “member” of the local religious institution, other programs may not. Age/grade requirements also vary from program to program. In addition, each program sets its own guidelines as to who may serve as counselor. Some programs require clergy to serve as counselor, others allow parents or other family members to serve as counselor. Parents must check specific eligibility guidelines!
Third, families should talk to their religious leaders and show them the booklet before beginning any program. Most of the religious recognitions programs require that they be completed under the auspices of that religious organization, and many require the signature of the local religious leader. 
Fourth, the girl needs to complete the requirements, obtain the proper signatures, and follow the instructions to order the recognition or pin. (These awards are not available in your Girl Scout council store.) 

How long does it take to complete a program?
It depends on the program. Some may be completed in three or four months, others longer.

How do I order the recognition items? 
Each religious program has its own award. Follow the instructions in your recognition guidelines because the awards come from different places and require submission of different information. These awards are not available in your local council store!

How is the award presented?
The award should be presented in a meaningful ceremony, preferably in the girl’s religious institution. Some awards come with a sample presentation ceremony. 

Where is the recognition worn on the uniform?
Girl Scouts may wear the appropriate level religious recognition either on the badge sash below the membership stars, or on the right side of the uniform (level with the membership pin).

What are the adult recognitions? 
The adult recognitions are by nomination only: they are honors given to worthy adults for their outstanding service to youth through both their religious institution and Girl Scouting. Recipients of these awards are unaware that they are being nominated: an outside party must nominate them to receive an award by submitting the required application, letters of recommendation, and resume. Please check eligibility requirements for specific awards.

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